Optical crosstalk is a major factor limiting the performance of Geiger-mode avalanche photodiode (GmAPD) focal plane arrays (FPAs). This is especially true for arrays with increased pixel density and broader spectral operation. We have performed extensive experimental and theoretical investigations on the crosstalk effects in InP-based GmAPD FPAs for both 1.06-μm and 1.55-μm applications. Mechanisms responsible for intrinsic dark counts are Poisson processes, and their inter-arrival time distribution is an exponential function. In FPAs, intrinsic dark counts and cross talk events coexist, and the inter-arrival time distribution deviates from purely exponential behavior. From both experimental data and computer simulations, we show the dependence of this deviation on the crosstalk probability. The spatial characteristics of crosstalk are also demonstrated. From the temporal and spatial distribution of crosstalk, an efficient algorithm to identify and quantify crosstalk is introduced.

Date Published: 13 May 2015
PDF: 12 pages
Proc. SPIE 9492, Advanced Photon Counting Techniques IX, 94920O (13 May 2015); doi: 10.1117/12.2177082

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 9492:
Advanced Photon Counting Techniques IX
Mark A. Itzler; Joe C. Campbell, Editor(s)